Trump Critiques Harvard on Foreign Student Funding Amid Legal Battle

President Donald Trump has voiced strong criticisms regarding the funding of foreign students studying at U.S. institutions like Harvard University. Trump’s comments surfaced on Sunday as tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard escalated, particularly concerning the university’s foreign student enrollment policies.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed concern over what he perceives as a lack of financial contributions from the countries of citizenship for nearly 31% of Harvard’s student population. He stated, “Why isn’t Harvard saying that almost 31% of their students are from FOREIGN LANDS, and yet those countries, some not at all friendly to the United States, pay NOTHING toward their student’s education, nor do they ever intend to? Nobody told us that!”

The remarks come in the context of an ongoing legal tussle over Harvard’s visa program. A judge recently intervened, temporarily blocking the Trump administration’s attempt to end the university’s ability to enroll foreign students following a lawsuit filed by Harvard.

Harvard’s Visa Policies Under Scrutiny

In his comments, Trump demanded transparency from Harvard regarding the identities of its foreign students. He noted that it is a reasonable request considering the substantial federal funding that the university receives. “We want to know who those foreign students are,” he stated. “Harvard has $52,000,000, use it, and stop asking for the Federal Government to continue GRANTING money to you!”

In response, Harvard contended that the administration’s immigration policy changes could adversely impact over 7,000 students, constituting nearly a quarter of its student body. The university argues that this action constitutes a violation of various constitutional rights, including the First Amendment and the Due Process Clause. According to Harvard’s court filing, the attempts by the administration represent a blatant retaliation against the university for asserting its rights.

Judicial Intervention and Ongoing Challenges

The recent ruling by the judge highlights the increasingly contentious relationship between the Trump administration and Harvard. The university’s lawsuit claims that the government’s actions represent a clear infringement on its academic autonomy and governance. Harvard emphasized that the administration’s move came without proper explanation or procedural fairness.

Specifically, the Department of Homeland Security initiated actions to terminate Harvard’s student visa program over claims that the institution did not comply with demands for comprehensive records pertaining to international students. The requested documentation includes any footage of protests involving visa holders, even if such activities are non-criminal, and any disciplinary actions taken against them in the past five years.

Concerns Over Protest Activities

Other records sought by the administration include documentation relating to any illegal or violent conduct by student visa holders, as well as evidence of any threats made against fellow students or university staff.

Harvard’s response to the new policy has been strong, with officials criticizing its abrupt implementation as a significant departure from established practices. The university described the policy as “pernicious” and suggested that it ignored decades of established procedures, resulting in severe consequences for thousands of students.

Impact on Students and Federal Funding

The impact of these immigration policies is already being felt on campus. Reports indicate that at least a dozen Harvard students have had their visas revoked due to activities related to protests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has acknowledged that the administration has likely revoked thousands of visas and has expressed willingness to continue taking such actions.

Additionally, the Trump administration has halted nearly $3 billion in federal funding intended for research at Harvard, citing the university’s alleged inadequate response to antisemitism and its ongoing policies around diversity, equity, and inclusion.

What Lies Ahead for Harvard and Its Students

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the university will navigate these complex legal and funding challenges. Both the administration and Harvard appear to be entangled in a broader ideological dispute that could have lasting implications for higher education and immigration policy in the United States.

As these developments unfold, the impact on the student body and the university’s ability to maintain its reputation as a premier institution will be closely monitored. The legal battle may redefine not only Harvard’s operational landscape but also influence policies at universities nationwide.

Fox News’ Morgan Phillips contributed to this report.